FM, Greece Officials Discuss Ties, Int’l Issues

In the meeting with the Greek prime minister, the two officials discussed expansion of bilateral ties, reviewed the latest developments in the Middle East and exchanged views on international issues.

Zarif and Tsipras also urged enhanced bilateral cooperation in such fields as energy, industries, technology, maritime transportation and tourism.

Earlier in the day in separate talks, Zarif and his counterpart emphasized the need to utilize the available opportunities in the fields of trade, energy, tourism and agriculture as well as culture and industry.

"Tehran-Athens relations have always been at an acceptable level," said Zarif. He also pointed to the unwanted impact of sanctions on the economic relations between the two nations, urging the two sides to take steps to remove the obstacles in the way of expanding ties through increased mutual consultations.

The Greek diplomat, in turn, referred to the ancient civilizations of Iran and Greece and the cultural commonalities between the two nations. Kotzias described Zarif's trip as a "significant step toward enhanced bilateral ties."

In addition, the two senior diplomats appealed for more serious resolve on part of the international community to counter the common threat of terrorism.